Gil S. Linson

Gil S. Linson, beloved husband, father and veteran, passed away on Wednesday, September 10, 2025. He was born on June 19, 1944, in the Philippines.

The son of Gil A. Linson, a Filipino Scout and survivor of the Bataan Death March, and Olivia Linson, Gil carried forward a legacy of resilience and service. After graduating from St. Anne’s in 1962, he enlisted in the U.S. Army, serving three years of active duty in South Korea during the Vietnam era, followed by nearly a decade in the National Guard.

Beyond his military service, Gil built a life marked by hard work and quiet devotion. He retired from a career in sales, and he cared deeply for his family. One of his greatest joys was sharing his love of fishing with his children — a gift of patience, joy, and time together.

On January 24, 1976, he married Rhonda in a courthouse ceremony that marked the beginning of a lifelong bond grounded in love and resilience.

Gil will be remembered for his unwavering devotion to family, his gift of forgiveness, his quiet joys, and the strength with which he lived his life. His story remains a legacy of honor, resilience, and love.

He is survived by his wife, Rhonda Linson; his three sons and their wives: LaRue Linson and Dr. Lisa Linson, Dr. Larry Linson and Dr. Paige Linson, and Keith Linson and Jessa Linson; his brothers Delphin, Albert, and Larry; and his grandchildren Molly, Andrew, Eli, Jude, and Penelope, who will carry his memory forward. He was preceded in death by his brother, Alex Linson; his father, Gil A. Linson; his mother, Olivia Linson; and his nephew, Eddie Linson.

Gil never met a stranger — though he could never remember their names, not even his kids’. That was classic Gil: warm, welcoming, and unforgettable. He leaves behind stories, laughter, and a legacy of love that will live on in those who knew him.

Graveside service will be 9:00 am Monday, September 15, 2025, at the committal shelter of the Fort Smith National Cemetery.